Rhythms of Heritage
Rashanthi HettiarachchiStep into the enchanting world of Sri Lankan traditional dance, where Rashanthi, a devoted guardian of cultural heritage, shares the artistry and significance of our beloved traditions. With a profound love for Sri Lankan culture, she imparts expertise in intricate movements and stories, preserving age-old traditions. Whether you're a novice or experienced dancer, Rashanthi creates a nurturing environment, blending physical techniques with historical and cultural context. Join us in our dance studio to celebrate the rich artistry of Kandyan, Low Country, and Sabaragamuwa dances—bridging tradition and modern expression. Discover the joy, elegance, and cultural pride within the living legacy of Sri Lankan traditional dance.
Teachers' Message
"Welcome to the vibrant world of Sri Lankan traditional dance! I'm Rashanthi, and I'm thrilled to guide you on a journey of rhythmic discovery and cultural celebration. Whether you're a beginner or refining your skills, join me in the joy of expression, elegance of movement, and the living legacy of our rich dance traditions."
Rashanthi
Rhythmic Maestros
Masters of Traditional Dance InstructionGayara Udawatta
Gayara joined Rangara in 2018 after her vigorous 10 year training at the Chitrasena School of Dance, Sri Lanka. She wears many hats at Rangara as a teacher, performer, choreographer, social media coordinator and also helps in event organizing and administrative work for the academy. She led a team of other dancing professionals at Rangara to perform at the Toronto International Dance Festival in 2023, and is aspiring to take the Rangara team to more cultural events in the future. Along with her passion for dancing she also balances her academics well, as she has completed her molecular biology degree at UofT and is aspiring to continue her higher studies.
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Thilina Weerasinghe
Thilina is a young and ambitious Sri Lankan traditional dancer. His expertise lies in the low-country dance style in Sri Lanka, which is a dance form that originates from the Southern parts of the Island. He is currently enrolled in the Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology program at Centennial College. He has had a passion for dancing since he was born, and his father is an internationally renowned traditional low-country dancer from Sri Lanka. Thilina has been working as an assistant low-country dance teacher at his father's dancing institution, and is currently the assistant Sri Lankan traditional drumming teacher and low country dance teacher at Rangara Performing Arts. He recently performed at the Toronto International Dance Festival with the senior dance troupe of Rangara performing arts foundation.
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Our Students
Dance is the poetry of motion, and every step is a word
Shadini Dematagoda
Shadini, a dedicated doctoral student in clinical neuropsychology and cognitive psychology at Toronto Metropolitan University, began her Kandyan dance journey at Rangara Performing Arts at age 11. One of Rangara's first two students, she consistently performed in Sri Lankan cultural shows from 2008-2015. Despite breaks during her academic pursuits, Shadini remains passionately engaged, eagerly anticipating future growth with Rangara.
OUR MISSION
Goals & Vision
To ensure that traditional Sri Lankan performing art forms are preserved for posterity, while promoting original creations and encouraging research and dissemination of knowledge.
To engage in the study of performing arts forms through critical analysis and exploration.